Shame on Pat Robertson: "Divorce Your Wife with Alzheimer’s"

Recently on his "700 Club" program, Pat Robertson offered his advice to a man whose wife is suffering from Alzheimer’s Disease: “Divorce her and start all over again” because the disease is "a kind of death."

Co-host Terry Meeuwsen understandably wondered if that would violate the “for better or for worse” provision of the man's wedding vows. Robertson responded by citing the “til death do us part,” section -- saying Alzheimer's is "a kind of death" and that he “certainly wouldn't put a guilt trip" on anyone who decided that divorce was the answer.

Is Robertson really saying that people with Alzheimer’s Disease should be treated as if they are already dead?

People For the American Way’s Right Wing Watch blog routinely exposes the offensive and narrow-minded views of Pat Robertson and many other radical right-wing leaders, and has reported on many offensive, discriminatory comments Robertson’s made against gays, non-Christians and others. However, his recent comment about how people should deal with loved ones afflicted with Alzheimer’s is new, and particularly cruel.

Take action today and speak out against Pat Robertson’s outrageous comments by signing People For the American Way’s petition telling Pat Robertson, “shame on you,” and urging him to apologize.

Letter to

Pat Robertson

I'm writing to urge you to apologize for your recent comments recommending a man "divorce" his wife with Alzheimer's.

Equating Alzheimer's Disease with death is inappropriate and offensive. While I have noted other narrow-minded views you've expressed towards gays, non-Christians and others, this comment was particularly cruel.